Happy Tears

Jayne (Parker Posey) and Laura (Demi Moore) are about to take on the first man they just might not be able to handle: their father Joe (Rip Torn). Dutiful daughters returning to the house they grew up in, Jayne and Laura are forced to take a closer look at their own not-so-perfect lives. Laura suspects that Joe needs full-time care, but Jayne refuses to believe that their father’s condition is serious. Jayne’s compulsion to escape reality only increases Laura’s attempts to yank her back down to earth. Meanwhile, Joe still sings and plays the blues on his prized guitar, and the lively widower even has a new ladyfriend, shameless and sassy Shelly (Ellen Barkin). Tensions flare as Joe’s senility increases and the close sisters must also juggle

Wonderfully acted by everyone! Rip Torn is a dream but cudos to all! Interesting story line and a perceptive look at familial relationships. It gets a little trippy but that’s part of the fun. Wacky, crazy, funny and oddly relatable, the movie is a joyous and touching ride. It resonates for days after. LOVED IT!

I saw this movie twice through my On Demand function, I loved it that much! (on two separate PAID occasions!) Parker Posey is apparently the “Queen” of indie films, and even though she gives her usual great performance here, it’s Ellen Barkin who steals the show in my opinion, especially since I didn’t recognize her at first. Her character cracks me up, so to speak, pun intended. She is absolutely hilarious as the “nurse”/exotic dancer who is living off Parker Posey’s and Demi Moore’s father, who is played by Rip Torn. Mr. Torn also gives a great turn as the deteriorating parent who is going through dementia. It is a combination of sad and hilarious as the girls deal with their father’s condition and argue about their upbringing and who is ultimately currently responsible for his care at any given time. There is supposedly a buried treasure in the backyard; one daughter unquestionably believes and the other has never believed in it. This film is very touching and lightly funny, the performances are excellent, and I truly feel Ms. Barkin deserves an award for her portrayal of the exotic dancer/nurse, although she wasn’t in the film very much. Demi Moore is outstanding as the more “together” sister, taking charge, and getting things done. Currently waiting for my own personal copy, this is one film that I won’t mind watching over and over and over, which is rare for me.